Ms Bhutto returned from self-imposed exile in October after years out of Pakistan where she had faced corruption charges.

Her return was the result of a power-sharing agreement with President Musharraf

He had granted an amnesty that covered the court cases she was facing.

But relations with Mr Musharraf soon broke down.

On the day of her arrival, she had led a motor cavalcade through the city of Karachi.

It was hit by a double suicide attack that left some 130 dead.

Rawalpindi, the nerve centre of Pakistan’s military, is seen as one of the country’s most secure cities.

Many analysts say attacks like those on Thursday show the creeping “Talebanisation” of Pakistan.

Radical Muslims calling for Islamic law, and fiercely opposed to the US, have become increasingly active in Pakistani politics in recent years, analysts say.

THE ASSASSINATION OF BENAZIR BHUTTO

1. Benazir Bhutto had addressed a rally of thousands of supporters in Rawalpindi’s Liaqat Bagh Park2. As her convoy was leaving the park via the rear gate onto Murree road, she was shot twice in the neck and chest3. The gunman then blew himself up killing at least 16 people4. Ms Bhutto was taken to Rawalpindi General Hospital, but was pronounced dead at 1816 local time.